Open House London in 2012

This year is the 20th anniversary of London Open House, an annual event which showcases London’s best architectural gems,  featuring over 750 buildings, places and spaces where Londoners work and live. Open House is free and takes place on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 of September.

The press release says: “This year’s theme ‘The Changing Face of London’ explores issues relevant to communities and how the built environment is evolving – including residential design, impact of climate change, the role of architects and contemporary design in revitalising places and showing how good design can make London a more vibrant and enjoyable city” – should definitely be of interest to most people!

Unfortunately… and I’m one of those who procrastinated and never moved my bottom to enter the ballot in time for some of the more popular buildings and events. I was hoping to visit Trellick Tower an iconic former social housing tower block designed by Erno Goldfinger, which is located in Notting Hill. Next year I will be better prepared or if there is anybody out there who lives there who would like to invite round for a cup of tea…

Never the less there are still plenty of interesting and fascinating places that are worth a visit, including, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Gaumont State Cinema and the Neasden Underground Bunker – those are ones which I’m hoping to visit, but there are hundreds more…

For more information and the full list of what is available to visit during Open House London 2012 visit www.londonopenhouse.org.